What Is Benadryl?
The brand name for the active component, diphenhydramine HCl, is Benadryl. First-generation ethanolamine-derivative antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, are classified by science as being able to pass the blood-brain barrier, which makes them extremely powerful but also increases the chance of negative side effects. Although Benadryl has not yet received FDA approval for use in veterinary care, it is widely utilized in American veterinary clinics and is thought to be safe for treatment in both dogs and cats.
Diphenhydramine functions by obstructing the body’s histamine receptors. This reduces a number of allergy-related symptoms, including hives, sneezing, and itching. Histamines are still produced by the body, but the receptor antagonist prevents the histamines from being recognized by the receptors.
It can be risky to give in to the urge to treat our pets with medications from our medicine cabinets. Veterinarians advise dog owners avoid giving their pets medicine on their own because humans and dogs react to drugs quite differently. However, when taken as directed, several human drugs are safe to give to dogs.